Johnathan Garrett runs a brokerage firm with his two partners Caleb and Aryl who he grew up with in a small fishing village. They marry well and enjoy a life of luxury. Then came the stock market crash of 1929 taking them into bankrupcy, poverty and depression. The three couples Jon and Ava, Caleb and Aeranna, Aryl and Clair, struggle to survive and to rebuild their lives. All the time, with Victor who desires Jon's wife Ava, out to destroy him. ( )

A piece of history very well written

As a person born in the early 70's who usually enjoys fantasy and biographies 1929 caught my eye because of the stock market crash, but come to find out this book is so much more than that. It is love and compassion and truly shows the "good old days" weren't always good but yet makes you long for the commradere and basic way of life. ( )

I enjoyed this book about two young couples starting out at the time of the Great Crash, and their struggles. Oddly, the next book in the series goes off in a different direction, which was disappointing to me, but I'll probably continue reading the series at some point. ( )

good story but not the best writing. a lot of extra stuff that wasn't needed to develop the story ( )

Have you ever read a book that you just wanted to devour? That you just could not wait for the turn of the page to find out what happens next? You simply must marathon read so you can get to the next installment? Yeah, that was me, reading this book.

The 1920's-1930's is probably my most favorite period of time. I have studied the era intently for many years and am glad the author felt no need to take on the onerous task of rewriting history. Instead choosing to follow where the characters lead her. Yes, there were some details that weren't specific to the era, but this is a work of fiction and the few liberties taken by Mrs. Gardner worked for the story and were by no means unforgivable.

The characters are well developed, very personable and extremely human. I found myself laughing with them, sympathizing with them, and more than once crying with them. Several times I caught myself arguing with a couple of the characters about choices that were being made, I couldn't help myself. I am very glad that I came into this series late because now I don't have to wait for the next one to come out, I can start it tonight!

I don't say this lightly, ML Gardner has written a story that has captured my imagination and my heart. Her book reminds me of one of my favorite series, The Clifton Chronicles. Mrs Gardner, you are my new Jeffrey Archer.

Highly recommend this series- 5 Stars ( )